Three diffirent former Trojans played meaningful preseason NFL games on Friday night with mixed results.
Mark Sanchez, Carson Palmer and Matt Barkley all saw action. Here’s how they did.
MARK SANCHEZ, JETS
What he did: The much-maligned New York starter did something to make his backers and his detractors happy in Friday’s game against Detroit. His first pass of the night was an ill-advised screen plass that was intercepted by Lions rookie Ziggy Ansah and returned for a touchdown. Sanchez did a great job after that, though, finishing 10 for 13 for 125 yards and a touchdown to go with the interception. Here’s what he said about being able to brush off the early gaffe. Sanchez’s main competition for the starting job, rookie Geno Smith completed six of seven passes, but left after a minor ankle twist.
What he said: “I know I’m getting better at that. I think it comes with maturity and experience. You can’t beat yourself up for a mistake.”
Next game: 4:30 p.m. Saturday vs. Jaguars
CARSON PALMER, CARDINALS
What he did: Palmer did a nice job in his first start with the Cardinals after moving over from the Raiders. He was 4 of 6 for 77 yards and a touchdown pass. He seems to be solidly entrenched as the starter with backup Drew Stanton, who also played well in the Cardinals’ 17-0 win over the Packers, next in line.
What he said: On the multiple deep throws downfield. “In every offense there is always someone running downfield. We took advantage of those opportunities. We’re not going to force it. Just because we say we’re going to do it doesn’t mean we always will. But if the opportunities are there, we are going to try to take advantage.”
Next game: 10:30 a.m. Saturday at home vs. Cowboys
MATT BARKLEY, EAGLES
What he did: Barkley, battling with Dennis Dixon to be the No. 3 quarterback in Philadelphia behind Michael Vick and Nick Foles, got extensive playing time against the Patriots on Friday. Barkley was 11 of 22 for 103 yards and a 12-yard TD pass with a two-point conversion pass tacked on. He also added nine yards rushing on two carries. Dixon completed 7 of 14 for 41 yards.
What he said: “I thought it started a little slow and then it finished on a great note. I think it was great to get in that no-huddle rhythm. That is how we have been practicing every day, so that is what I am used to. When (head coach) Chip (Kelly) got into that tempo package, I felt like I did better. I was much more in sync with what was going on. It felt right.”
Next game: 4:30 p.m. Thursday at home vs. Carolina
In other USC QB in the NFL news, Matt Cassel, whose tenure in Kansas City was a flop, is now fighting for a job with the Bills. The Bills play the Colts at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday. Matt Leinart is still a free agent and hasn’t latched on with any teams.